Liverpool crash out of FA Cup at Plymouth as Arne Slot gamble backfires – 5 talking points

Plymouth Argyle delivered one of the greatest shocks in FA Cup history, sending Liverpool crashing out of the competition in a dramatic fourth-round tie. The Championship’s bottom club outclassed and outfought the Premier League leaders, securing a historic 1-0 victory that will be remembered for years to come.

Ryan Hardie’s decisive penalty in the 53rd minute, awarded after a controversial handball by Harvey Elliott, proved to be the difference. But the result was not simply about one moment—it was a testament to Plymouth’s resolute defending, disciplined pressing, and Liverpool’s inability to break down a well-organized side.

For Arne Slot, this was a tactical gamble that spectacularly backfired. The Dutchman made ten changes to the side that dismantled Tottenham 4-0 in the Carabao Cup semi-final, prioritizing freshness for an upcoming Merseyside derby against Everton. However, that decision cost Liverpool dearly, as they produced one of their most uninspired performances of the season.

1. The end of the quadruple dream

Just weeks ago, Liverpool fans dared to dream of another historic quadruple chase. With their place booked in the Carabao Cup final and top of the Premier League, optimism was high. However, their FA Cup campaign has come to a humiliating end, leaving them with just three competitions to fight for.

Slot and his coaching staff had reportedly banned the word “quadruple” at the Kirkby training ground, determined to keep their focus on each game at a time. But Plymouth ensured that the debate has ended entirely—Liverpool’s cup ambitions have taken a significant hit.

2. Arne Slot’s gamble fails spectacularly

The decision to rest key players was always going to be a risk, but few could have predicted how poorly it would unfold. Slot not only rotated heavily but chose to leave senior stars out of the matchday squad entirely. Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Trent Alexander-Arnold were among those left at home, as Slot placed faith in his second-string side.

However, the disjointed performance exposed the lack of cohesion in Liverpool’s fringe players. Plymouth capitalized on their lack of rhythm, while Liverpool’s attacking play was unimaginative and sluggish. Slot had taken a similar approach in the Champions League against PSV, but this time, there was no safety net—the gamble cost Liverpool a place in the FA Cup.

3. Plymouth’s defensive warriors steal the show

Plymouth’s defensive performance was nothing short of heroic. With Miron Muslic recently taking charge, the team looked unrecognizable from the side that had struggled under Wayne Rooney. Two new arrivals, Maksym Talovyerov and Nikola Katic, became instant heroes with their fearless performances.

Talovyerov, only in his second game since signing from LASK Linz, led the backline with grit and determination. His crunching tackle on Luis Díaz midway through the second half epitomized the spirit Plymouth played with. Katic, the former Rangers defender, even lost a tooth in the heat of battle but continued to throw himself into every challenge.

4. Joe Gomez’s nightmare afternoon

The disappointment of the afternoon was summed up by Joe Gomez’s early exit. Wearing the captain’s armband, Gomez lasted just eight minutes before being forced off. Initially, there was confusion over whether it was an injury or illness, but whatever the case, it was another bitter setback for the defender.

Gomez had only recently returned from a hamstring problem and was eager to prove himself. Instead, his afternoon ended prematurely, forcing Slot to introduce 19-year-old Isaac Mabaya for his debut. However, even the young full-back did not last the full 90 minutes, as Slot later removed him in a tactical reshuffle.

5. Ryan Hardie makes himself a Plymouth legend

The FA Cup is famous for creating heroes, and Ryan Hardie has now cemented his place in Plymouth folklore. His coolly taken penalty sent Caoimhin Kelleher the wrong way and gave the home fans a moment they will never forget.

Hardie was a constant threat, using his pace and movement to trouble Liverpool’s defense. He nearly doubled his tally on the hour mark, forcing Kelleher into a brilliant save at the near post. While his goal ultimately secured the win, his overall performance embodied Plymouth’s fearless approach.

6. Liverpool’s attack falters under pressure

With Diogo Jota, Luis Díaz, and Federico Chiesa leading the attack, Liverpool should have had enough firepower to break down Plymouth. Yet, the front three looked isolated and frustrated throughout the game.

Jota, who has been in fine form recently, barely had a sniff at goal, except for one late volley that was brilliantly saved by Conor Hazard. Chiesa, a marquee summer signing, had arguably his worst performance in a Liverpool shirt, failing to impact the game on the right flank.

Luis Díaz tried to inject urgency with his dribbling, but Plymouth’s disciplined defensive shape ensured he had little room to operate. It was a damning indictment of Liverpool’s lack of creativity.

7. Conor Hazard’s match-winning save

With Liverpool desperately pushing for an equalizer in the dying minutes, goalkeeper Conor Hazard made the defining save of the match. Jota’s late effort seemed destined for the bottom corner, but the Plymouth shot-stopper pulled off an outstanding reflex save to preserve his side’s lead.

Hazard’s composure under pressure was crucial in Plymouth’s victory. Every cross, every shot, and every set-piece Liverpool delivered was handled with confidence, ensuring there was no way through for the Premier League giants.

8. Slot’s substitutions fail to inspire a comeback

Arne Slot reacted to Liverpool’s struggles by introducing Darwin Núñez in the second half, hoping his energy and physicality would make a difference. However, the Uruguayan was unable to find a breakthrough.

Núñez had one promising chance when he flashed a shot just wide, and an injury-time header was saved by Hazard. But overall, his presence did little to trouble Plymouth’s rock-solid defense.

The late introduction of young winger Trent Kone-Doherty also failed to alter the outcome. The Irish teenager showed flashes of promise with a few dribbles, but with Liverpool running out of time, it was too little, too late.

9. What’s next for Liverpool?

While this result is a bitter blow, Liverpool must quickly regroup. They have bigger objectives ahead, with a crucial Merseyside derby against Everton coming up.

Slot will be under scrutiny for his selection choices, but the reality is that Liverpool’s main focus remains the Premier League and Europa League. This loss will sting, but it must serve as a wake-up call as they enter a defining stretch of the season.

10. A moment to savor for Plymouth

For Plymouth, this was a day that will be talked about for generations. Knocking out Liverpool, the Premier League leaders, is a moment of history for the club and a testament to their resilience.

Their challenge now is to carry this momentum into their battle against relegation. If they can replicate this level of discipline and intensity, they have every chance of pulling off another great escape—this time in the Championship.

Liverpool may have left Home Park humiliated, but for Plymouth, this was a victory to cherish forever.